Explicate the design and method in ONE example of qualitative or mixed method social research, focusing on the relationship between epistemology, theory and empirical procedures.
Format:
An ‘explication de texte’ of 1500 words using the text of a research journal article in your field of study. It will be a review and evaluation essay that makes explicit the research design principles and methods of your chosen article. The exercise will test your understanding of the research process and your ability to identify the underlying assumptions, the structure of the argument, the use of evidence and specific analytical techniques in the reported study. It is not intended to be a generalized critique of qualitative method.
Source:
You will choose a source (an article in a peer-reviewed research journal) which uses qualitative empirical research and has a sufficient amount of depth and detail on methods. You may select a source either from the list of examples provided on Blackboard or any area of research in social sciences, but you are recommended to choose one from your own particular areas of interest. You may ask for feedback on your choice before you start writing.
Assessment criteria:
The purpose of this assessment is diagnostic and developmental. The feedback should help you to monitor your understanding of research process and meaning, and enhance your reflexive awareness of method. A good assignment will display evidence of close reading and the ability to identify and evaluate the assumptions being made by a researcher in carrying out and writing up a piece of social research.
